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Overview

Hoagie finds himself in a strange world when his hamster ball rolls a bit too far from home. Adventure ensues as Hoagie makes an unlikely friendship with Katie, a capybara, who has wandered away from her family too! The two embark on a journey that leads them through wonder, danger, and surprise as they meet a memorable roster of characters on their way back home.

Product Details

About the Author

Rio Koviak has degrees in Theater/Film and Animal Behavior, and has continued her fascination and involvement with both over the years. It is this love of the arts and animals that has prompted her to create a colorful story that is equally endearing as it is dramatic.Aside from managing her families needs, Rio dabbles in voice-over projects and manuscript reading for theBookDesigners (a studio that specializes in book design/services to self-published authors and major publishers worldwide).Rio resides in Norhern Oregon with her hubby Ian Koviak, two kids, and their highly tolerant cat, Tashin.

Ian KoviakCO-FOUNDER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR of theBookDesignersBorn to a family of Polish artists in Brooklyn, New York, Ian migrated on to exotic locations such as India, the Philippines, Hawaii and California. He brings a treasure trove of life experience to his work, including the benefit of over 15 years of book design in the publishing industry. In 2006, Ian joined partner Alan Hebel to start theBookDesigners, a one-stop book design studio servicing both indie publishers and general trade publishing houses. He has designed thousands of titles spanning every genre, many of which have won awards and industry recognition. Ian splits his time between Northern California and Oregon, where he lives with his wife, Rio Koviak and their two kids and cat.

Table of Contents

Editorial Reviews

…[a] good book to challenge young readers to move beyond their favorite picture books, and wanting to read more ‘chapter books’.The author concludes this first adventure on a positive note with some good lessons learned.I look forward to the next adventure of Katie and Hoagie. Young readers who are​really into animals will find this to be an enjoyable book.--PORTLAND BOOK REVIEW, 4 STARS

"A sweetly illustrated, charming tale of adventure and discovery, family, and surprising friendships among the denizens of an enchanted swamp."—MARK BURSTEIN, President Emeritus of The Lewis Carroll Society of North America

"I just read Hoagie & Katie with my niece, Laila, who is 8. She laughed a lot! Hoagie is a very funny character, and the images are beautiful. This book is perfect for any kid who likes animals and humor."—MONIQUE SORGEN, Author, Screenwriter, Director

"Bravo! A great first for Rio Koviak. Heart-warming, feisty, and packed with memorable characters. Just the right amount of adventure, wonder and laugh-out-loud moments to keep the kiddos engaged."—ALAN HEBEL, Book Production Manager

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
Hoagie and Katie by Rio Koviak is a charming storybook for children, and introduces young readers to two interesting characters, Hoagie and Katie. The story opens with Hoagie’s purple hamster ball rolling on the forest floor. When the door rattles open, Hoagie revels in the beauty of the place and allows his lungs to fill up with sweet fresh air. He steps out of the protection of his purple hamster ball. He is scared when he hears a small noise behind him. As Hoagie goes around the place, he runs into Katie, a lost capybara. The hamster and the capybara introduce themselves and, before they know it, both of them are cuddling up and that is the beginning of a new friendship. This beautiful story of friendship speaks about getting to know each other, accepting their differences, helping and standing by each other during times of need.
The author’s portrayal of Hoagie and Katie is wonderful and these two characters will warm the hearts of readers. It is adorable to watch them getting to know each other and how they begin their memorable journey of friendship. The pictures really stand out in the book. They are captivating and colorful and will pull children into the story. I also liked the idea of using real animals against the backdrop of illustrations as it makes the characters in the story palpable to young readers. This story is good for bedtime storytelling and read aloud sessions in classrooms as it is not only about friendship, but also introduces readers to a lot of new things. I am sure youngsters are going to enjoy this series of adventures with Hoagie and Katie.

The_Avid_Bookivore

More than 1 year ago

A wonderful book filled with adventure and a little bit of danger for Hoagie and Katie. I love how two unsuspecting strangers meet in unfortunate circumstances and make the best of their situation while becoming best friends. A great way to show children that no matter what trials you go through, make the best and stay optimistic. Our family had a ton of fun reading this book together for our story time and we can't wait for the next Hoagie and Katie story!
I recommend this book to all families with children who have a love for a fantastical adventure!